JUNE 30, 1997

Prost - the revolution continues

ALAIN PROST's gradual revamping of the former Ligier team continues with the announcement that managing-director Bruno Michel is to depart with immediate effect. Michel, an accountant by trade, has been involved at Ligier since the team was run by Cyril de Rouvre in 1993. He worked closely with Flavio Briatore on the financial side of the business during the takeover of the team and became financial controller during the period when Tom Walkinshaw was in charge. After Walkinshaw left Michel became Operations and Financial Director and ultimately managing director.

His departure leaves the way open for the appointment of Hugues de Chaunac, Prost's longtime mentor and sometime business partner, as the team boss. Michel's disappearance also highlights the fact that Prost is the 100% owner of the team - contrary to paddock rumors which suggested that Briatore still had some involvement.

Michel is expected to continue his association with Briatore either at Benetton or, more likely, with Minardi.